The Foundation Phase consists of three Grade R classes and four classes in Grades 1 - 3 respectively. Each class size ranges from 35 pupils. The dedicated teachers in the Foundation Phase provide a warm, stimulating and dynamic teaching and learning environment. Our children are encouraged to explore, experiment, interact, think, reason and express their creative talents in order to reach their full academic potential. We emphasise the social skills of etiquette, friendship, courtesy, empathy, sharing, co-operation and justice.

The school is fortunate to have the services of Teaching Assistants in the Foundation Phase classes. Their valuable input includes assistance with administrative duties, group work and various other aspects of the teaching and learning situation. There are also "Reading Moms" who enjoy the opportunity to give one-on-one reading time to the children during the mornings.

Cliffview keeps up with the technological developments in education, each classroom has a Smartboard. THRASS (Teaching Handwriting, Reading and Spelling Skills) is providing the children with the skills to develop their reading, writing and spelling abilities. Specialist teachers for Media, Computer and Physical Education provide additional opportunities for development. A large variety of extra mural activities are provided for the children in this Phase.

Cliffview Primary is very aware of the needs of the children in its care and there is a private therapy centre, 'The Jennifer Maud Centre'. This team provides specialist Occupational, Remedial Physio and Speech therapy.

The children are encouraged to become responsible, independent, self disciplined members of the school. The foundations laid in this Phase ensure continued growth and development in the Intermediate and Senior Phases.